Please note that this is an Archived article and may contain content that is out of date. The use of she/her/hers pronouns in some articles is not intended to be exclusionary. Eating disorders can affect people of all genders, ages, races, religions, ethnicities, sexual orientations, body shapes, and weights.

Watching a loved one struggle with an eating disorder can be heartbreaking. You may feel helpless, unsure of what to say, or afraid of pushing them away. While eating disorders are serious and complex, recovery is possible—and your support can make a difference.

Encouraging someone to seek treatment requires patience, understanding, and a compassionate approach. Here’s how you can help a loved one take the first step toward healing.

—

1. Educate Yourself About Eating Disorders

Before starting a conversation, take time to learn about eating disorders, their symptoms, and the impact they have on physical and emotional health. Understanding the complexities of the illness will help you approach the situation with empathy rather than frustration.

Helpful resources include:

· National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA)

· The National Alliance for Eating Disorders

· Center for Change website

By being informed, you’ll be better equipped to address concerns and answer questions if your loved one is hesitant about treatment.

—

2. Choose the Right Time and Place

Conversations about seeking treatment should happen in a private, calm, and non-threatening environment. Avoid bringing it up during meals or moments of stress. Instead, find a time when your loved one is more receptive to talking openly.

Use a gentle, caring tone and approach the discussion without judgment. Your goal is to express concern and offer support, not to force them into a decision.

—

3. Use Compassionate and Non-Judgmental Language

People with eating disorders often feel guilt, shame, or fear about their struggles. When you speak to your loved one, avoid blaming or pressuring them. Instead, use “I” statements to express your feelings without sounding accusatory.

✅ Say: “I’ve noticed you’ve been struggling lately, and I’m really worried about you. I care about you so much and want to support you in any way I can.”

❌ Avoid: “You never eat enough. You need to get help right now.”

The goal is to make them feel safe and understood rather than defensive.

—

4. Validate Their Feelings and Avoid Arguments

Your loved one may not recognize the severity of their eating disorder or may feel resistant to change. If they react with denial or anger, stay calm and validate their emotions.

Instead of debating or trying to convince them, acknowledge their feelings while reinforcing your concern. For example:

➡️ “I understand that this feels overwhelming, and I know it’s not easy to talk about. But I want you to know you’re not alone, and I will be here for you every step of the way.”

—

5. Offer to Help Them Take the First Step

Taking the first step toward treatment can feel daunting. Offer to help with practical tasks such as:

· Researching treatment options together

· Finding a therapist or treatment center

· Attending a consultation or appointment with them

You can say: “You don’t have to do this alone. Let’s look into options together and find something that feels right for you.”

—

6. Be Patient and Continue Offering Support

Recovery is a journey, and your loved one may not be ready to seek treatment immediately. Keep showing up for them with patience and compassion. Small gestures—checking in, offering a listening ear, or reminding them that you care—can make a big difference.

If they resist help but their health is at serious risk, consider speaking with a professional for guidance on next steps.

—

7. Encourage Professional Help

Eating disorders require specialized care. If your loved one is open to treatment, encourage them to seek support from trained professionals. Inpatient programs, like those at Center for Change, provide medical, nutritional, and therapeutic support in a structured and healing environment.

If they’re unsure, remind them: “Seeking help is not a sign of weakness—it’s a sign of strength. You deserve support and a chance to heal.”

—

You Are Not Alone—Help Is Available

Encouraging a loved one to seek treatment is not always easy, but your support can be life-changing. If you’re looking for compassionate, expert care, Center for Change is here to help.

Contact us today at 888.224.8250 to learn more about treatment options and how we can support your loved one’s recovery.